Build Your 72-Hour Survival Kit: Be Ready for Any Disaster

Joe Montemorano
Jun 3
4 min read

Build Your 72-Hour Kit: Be Ready for Any Disaster

Disasters strike without warning—fires, floods, earthquakes, or man-made emergencies can disrupt life in an instant. When basic services like electricity, water, or phones are cut off, you and your family may need to survive on your own for up to three days. That’s where a 72-Hour Kit comes in. At rxhealthyhabits, we’re here to help you build healthy, resilient habits, including preparing for emergencies. This guide walks you through creating and maintaining a 72-Hour Disaster Supplies Kit to keep your family safe and self-sufficient.

Why You Need a 72-Hour Kit

After a major disaster, help may not arrive immediately. FEMA estimates it can take up to three days for relief workers to reach some areas. During this time, you might face power outages, water shortages, or blocked roads. A 72-Hour Kit ensures you have the essentials to manage until help arrives. Preparing now reduces stress and gives you peace of mind.

Self-Sufficiency: Covers food, water, and medical needs for 3 days.
Quick Evacuation: Portable kit lets you leave at a moment’s notice.
Safety Net: Protects against disruptions in basic services.

What to Include in Your 72-Hour Kit

Your kit should cover six key categories: water, food, first aid, clothing/bedding, tools, and special items. Store everything in a portable, easy-to-carry container like a camping backpack, duffel bag, or covered trash can. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Water

Quantity: 1 gallon per person per day for 3 days (e.g., 12 gallons for a family of four).
Purpose: For drinking and basic hygiene.
Storage: Use sealed, food-grade containers.

Food

Type: Non-perishable items like canned goods, protein bars, or dried fruit.
Quantity: Enough for 3 days, tailored to your family’s size and dietary needs.
Tools: Include a manual can opener and utensils.

First Aid Supplies

Essentials: Bandages, gauze, antiseptics, and a first aid manual.
Medications: 7-day supply of prescriptions, plus over-the-counter drugs.
Extras: Include items like thermometer and tweezers.

Clothing and Bedding

Clothing: One complete change per person, including:
- Jacket or coat.
- Long pants and long-sleeve shirt.
- Sturdy shoes.
- Hat, mittens, and scarf (for cold climates).
Bedding: Sleeping bag or warm blanket per person.

Tools and Emergency Items

Must-Haves:
- Flashlight with extra batteries.
- Portable, battery-powered radio or TV.
- Waterproof matches.
- Whistle to signal for help.
Hygiene: Moist towelettes, toilet paper, and sanitation items.
Documents: Photocopies of IDs, credit cards, and insurance policies.
Cash: Small bills and coins for emergencies.

Special Items

Infants: Formula, diapers, bottles, pacifiers.
Medical Needs: Glasses, contact lens solution, hearing aid batteries.
Personalized Items: Anything specific to your family’s needs (e.g., pet supplies).

Pro Tip: Customize your kit for your climate. In colder regions, prioritize warm clothing and blankets to stay safe without heat.

How to Maintain Your 72-Hour Kit

A kit is only effective if it’s ready when you need it. Regular maintenance ensures your supplies are safe and usable. Follow these tips:

Rotate Supplies:
- Replace food and water every 6 months.
- Write storage dates on containers for tracking.
- Use older items before they expire and restock with fresh supplies.
Check Food Quality:
- Store canned goods in a cool, dry place.
- Discard swollen, dented, or corroded cans.
- Keep boxed food in sealed plastic or metal containers to deter pests.
Update Annually:
- Reassess your family’s needs (e.g., new medications, infant supplies).
- Adjust clothing sizes or seasonal items.
Storage:
- Place items in airtight plastic bags to protect from moisture.
- Keep the kit in one or two portable containers in an accessible spot.

Pro Tip: Set a calendar reminder every 6 months to check and rotate your supplies. This keeps your kit ready year-round.

Steps to Build Your Kit

Don’t feel overwhelmed—building a 72-Hour Kit is manageable with a step-by-step approach:

Assess Needs: List your family’s specific requirements (e.g., dietary restrictions, medical needs).
Gather Supplies: Start with one category (e.g., water) and add items over time.
Choose a Container: Pick a backpack or duffel bag for portability.
Organize: Pack items in airtight bags and label clearly.
Store Smart: Keep the kit in a designated, easy-to-reach location.
Involve Family: Teach everyone where the kit is and how to use it.

Pro Tip: If budget is a concern, buy one item per week (e.g., a can of food or a flashlight). Small steps add up to a complete kit.

Why Act Now?

Disasters don’t wait for you to be ready. You may need to evacuate quickly, leaving no time to gather supplies. A 72-Hour Kit ensures you’re prepared to act fast, whether you’re sheltering at home or fleeing to safety. Plus, preparing now builds confidence and reduces panic during an emergency.

Final Thoughts

A 72-Hour Kit is your family’s lifeline in a disaster. By stocking water, food, first aid, clothing, tools, and special items, you’re taking control of your safety. Maintain your kit regularly and involve your family in the process to stay prepared year-round. At rxhealthyhabits, we’re here to guide you toward healthier, more resilient habits. Visit rxhealthyhabits.com to download our free 72-Hour Kit checklist and start building your kit today.

72-Hour Kit Checklist

1 gallon of water per person per day for 3 days.
3-day supply of non-perishable food.
Manual can opener and utensils.
First aid kit with manual and 7-day medication supply.
Flashlight with extra batteries.
Portable radio or TV with extra batteries.
Waterproof matches and a whistle.
Moist towelettes, toilet paper, and hygiene items.
One change of clothing per person (jacket, long pants, shirt, shoes, hat, mittens, scarf).
Sleeping bag or warm blanket per person.
Photocopies of IDs, credit cards, and insurance policies.
Cash in small bills and coins.
Infant supplies (formula, diapers, bottles, pacifiers).
Special needs items (glasses, contact solution, hearing aid batteries).
Store kit in a portable container (backpack, duffel bag).
Rotate food and water every 6 months.